On November 6, 2024, the Austrian Sparkling Wine Committee ushered in a historic leadership transition by electing Aurore Jeudy, the cellar master of Schlumberger, as its new chairwoman.
Jeudy succeeds Mag. Benedikt Zacherl, who has retired from his role to assume an international position within Schlumberger's parent company.
This appointment marks a significant milestone for Austrian sparkling wine (Sekt), as Jeudy, a French native with an illustrious career in oenology, is the first woman in Schlumberger's 180-year history to hold the position of chief oenologist. Her expertise and innovative vision promise a dynamic future for Austrian Sekt, both locally and on the global stage.
From Alsace to Austria: A Trailblazing Journey
Hailing from Alsace, a region synonymous with fine white wines, Aurore Jeudy brings a wealth of experience to the Austrian Sparkling Wine Committee. Her journey began in Champagne, the world’s most prestigious sparkling wine region, where she honed her craft. This early exposure to excellence laid the foundation for her career, which spans consulting roles for esteemed wine and sparkling wine cellars across Europe and Asia.
Since September 2022, Jeudy has been the chief oenologist at Schlumberger, Austria’s premier sparkling wine cellar. Her appointment symbolizes a perfect blend of tradition and innovation, as she draws upon her Champagne expertise to elevate Austrian sparkling wine production.
Beyond her work in the cellar, Jeudy’s leadership credentials include her role as chairwoman of the jury at the prestigious "Vinalies Internationales" wine competition. This background positions her to lead the Austrian Sparkling Wine Committee with a blend of technical expertise and strategic vision.
A Vision for Austrian Sekt
In her inaugural statement as chairwoman, Jeudy emphasized her commitment to advancing Austrian Sekt’s prominence:
“It is a great honor for me to have been elected chairwoman of the Austrian Sparkling Wine Committee. Over the past ten years, numerous measures have been taken to raise awareness of Sekt Austria and to pass on our passion and expertise to consumers. I am determined to continue this successful course and to involve producers as comprehensively as possible. Austria offers an impressive variety of Sekt Austria of the highest quality, which we must raise even more awareness of. Similar to France or Italy, I am convinced that our committee is a significant strength for all Austrian producers and helps to give Sekt Austria more visibility and long-term credibility.”
Jeudy’s goals include bolstering consumer awareness and solidifying Austria’s reputation as a top-tier sparkling wine producer, akin to France’s Champagne or Italy’s Prosecco.
Meet the Austrian Sparkling Wine Committee
The Austrian Sparkling Wine Committee is a coalition of industry leaders committed to promoting and refining the art of Sekt production. Under Jeudy’s leadership, the committee comprises an impressive roster of winemakers and professionals:
- Aurore Jeudy (Chairwoman, Schlumberger Sparkling Winery, Vienna)
- Peter Szigeti (Deputy Chairman, Szigeti Sparkling Wine Cellar, Gols)
- Hannes Harkamp (Harkamp Sektmanufaktur, Leibnitz)
- Michael Malat (Head of Marketing Committee, Malat Winery, Palt)
- Wolfgang Peck (Domaine Andau, Zantho, Andau)
- Martin Pfliegler (Weingut Pfliegler, Kleinhadersdorf)
- Ernst Polsterer (Johann Kattus sparkling wine cellar, Vienna)
- Georg Regele (Weingut F&S Regele, Ehrenhausen)
- Florian Rieder (Rieder Winery, Kleinhadersdorf)
- Max Riegelhofer (Head of Technical Committee, Weingut Riegelhofer, Poysdorf)
- Thomas Schlatte (Sektkellerei Karl Inführ, Klosterneuburg)
- Andreas Wickhoff (Head of Finance Committee, Bründlmayer Winery, Langenlois)
Together, these members represent the diverse spectrum of Austria’s Sekt industry, from boutique producers to renowned wineries.
Raising the Profile of Austrian Sekt
The Austrian Sparkling Wine Committee has played a pivotal role in promoting the country’s sparkling wine, emphasizing quality and tradition. Under Jeudy’s leadership, the focus will remain on innovation, sustainability, and global recognition.
With its rich diversity of terroirs and a deep commitment to excellence, Austria is well-positioned to become a global leader in sparkling wine. Aurore Jeudy’s appointment as chairwoman signals an exciting new chapter, one that promises to elevate Austrian Sekt to unprecedented heights.
Source: Der-Winzer